Recently Jon planted a garden with the kids. We always had a pretty big garden when we lived in the U.S. Now that we are in an urban setting, our garden space is very restricted. But Jon was creative and used a tiny space around our water cistern to turn into a little garden with peppers, corn, tomatoes, and a few other vegetables. On our terrace upstairs we also have some flowers and herbs so we are surrounded by greenery! Jon is also going to be part of some other garden projects including helping out in a rural community and at a local orphanage. He wants to help the people become more self-sustaining and learn about growing different types of food. This is something that we hope to use for ministry in the future, but for now we are starting with our own little garden!

Thinking about planting a garden makes me think about our life here in El Salvador. We moved here because we eventually want to improve people’s lives not only by helping them with physical necessities, but also pointing them towards Jesus Christ. We want to represent the love of Christ to them. But that starts with our own little family. We want to love and encourage each other and train our kids to make a difference in the world. The last six months (I can’t believe it’s been that long) have been tough as we adjust to life in a new culture. Our little “sprouts” have had some tough days as have Jon and I. But we know that sometimes some digging needs to happen and things can get pretty dirty in our lives as God grows us into who He wants us to be. I’m finding how much that begins at home. I need to nurture my family, feed them, shower them with love, protect them and help them rebuild when the storms come. But there is also the promise of growth for the future, and one day a harvest.

"Before"...this is a little patch of grass in front of our house. The huge aloe plants were moved to the backyard. The little shed in the corner has our cistern. Water doesn't run to our house all the time...only certain times of the day, and sometimes not at all. We store it in there.

The kids helped Jon plant the garden. He put all of the crops in huge wooden boxes so he could control the amount of water. Here the seasons are crazy with a dry and then a wet season. But there is enough sun to grow things year round.

The kids were literally digging in the dirt...they were covered! Here is Tori inside the giant box.

Ian loved getting his hands dirty!